Obituary for Robert Ernest Showerman

Robert E. Showerman passed away Saturday, January 25, 2025 a the age of 76. He was born on August 23, 1948, the son of Robert E. and Clarice (Schwab) Showerman. He attended Barn School in his early years and transferred to Portland Public Schools starting in junior high and he graduated in June of 1966. He entered the U.S. Marine Corp. in November of 1967, serving for 6 years in the reserve and then in the Michigan Army National Guard from 1973-1993, serving as Flight Operations in the Grand Ledge Helicopter Unit for the last years after attending school at Fort Rucker, Alabama.

Robert had many different jobs over the years; he finished with Agricultural Elevator Management. He was a Loan Officer at Branch County Federal Savings and Loan and after moving back to Portland, he hired in at General Motors in Lansing as a security officer, retiring in 2010. He served as Chief of Security for the last years at Delta and Plant 1. He loved golfing with friends and family, watching basketball and football, and a loyal MSU and Big Ten supporter.

Robert married Laurita Snitgen of Portland, Michigan on June 27, 1970, they then had a son, Jonathan Robert Showerman, whom graduated from PHS in 1992 and served 26 years in the U.S. Navy as a Senior Chief.

Bob was most proud of his title, United States Marine and he enjoyed visiting Civil War Battlefields, his favorite being Chickamauga and Chattanooga, Antietam, Gettysburg, and Shiloh.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, John Oaks Showerman. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Laurita Showerman; his son, Jonathon (Denise) Showerman; grandchildren, Scott Showerman, Alexis Showerman, and Jared Showerman; great-granddaughters, Lily and Natalie; siblings, Louise Hill, Ralph (Kathie) Showerman, and Joyce Showerman; and a plethora of nieces, nephews, and extended family.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects on Monday, January 27, 2025 from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at the Lehman Funeral Home, 210 E. Bridge Street, Portland.

The Funeral Service will be officiated by Pastor Lenora Combs-Whitecotton and Pastor Doug Hill at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, January 28, 2025 at the Portland United Methodist Church. Interment with military honors will follow at Danby Township Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to The Marine Corps Heritage Museum and the American Battlefield Trust in memory of Robert. Arrangements are entrusted to Lehman Funeral Homes. Online condolences may be made at www.lehmanfuneralhomes.com.